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Your lease is up. Your trade-in value is less than your aging car would cost to repair. Or, you're venturing out to buy your very first automobile. These are all reasons why people are wading into the car market this summer.

But in order to get a smart summer deal, you need to do some home work, especially because car prices are bumping up against record levels. Those super-attractive offers on television and online might not be available once you get to a showroom, unless you know what you're up against. Here are four tips to success in summer car shopping.

Buy an outgoing model. There's a reason why auto companies flood the airwaves with ads for certain models: they're going away. In order to set the stage for the new versions of cars and trucks, they have to clear out the old ones. That means you'll get a particularly good price if you don't mind buying the current version and not waiting for the new one. For instance, Ford is offering a $169 a month lease on the 2012 Escape in some places, even as it is touting the 2013 Escape. Another tip: before you head to a showroom, check your dealer's inventory online. Many now will tell you how many of a certain model are in stock, along with its features and color. If you see lots of the car you want, you'll have a stronger case than if your dealer has to order it.

Have tip-top credit. Listen carefully to those summer deal ads, and you'll hear the words, "well qualified buyers." Usually, that means a top-level credit rating. Having a strong credit report allows you to access the very best offers. Conversely, if you've been hurt by a foreclosure or a short sale, and haven't checked your credit rating lately, you might find yourself shut out of some of those well-advertised deals. Make sure you fix any errors before you go car shopping.

Shop for a winter car. It's like buying an air conditioner in December. Unless you live in an area with heavy rains or strong winds, it isn't likely you'll be needing all-wheel drive during the summer. The same is true for big vehicles with four-wheel drive. But if you know you'll need it down the road, summer can be a good time to shop for what many people think of as winter cars (as opposed to buying a convertible in the summer, when the demand is strongest).

Head out when the kids have gone back to school. Many parents want to have their new vehicle in the driveway for the new school year. Dealers can sense this when harried moms and dads arrive. But, hanging on until school resumes may give you more bargaining clout. There ought to be incentive plans running throughout August and September, giving you time to shop for what you really want rather than having to make a decision because school starts on Monday.

Are there other questions that you have about summer car shopping? Let me know and I'll try to get you an answer.